Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 4 years and 2 months old | 45 lbs
My dog was fine this morning when I took him to the vet for heartworm testing and to clean his anal glands. When we got home, he became very lethargic and licking and shaking his jaw like he is in pain. He does have bad teeth, he has malcusion. Could the stress of the vet have triggered a bad tooth to hurt extra bad? I know dental surgery is a must in the most timely manner possible, but in the mean time, is there anything I can do at home to help him until we can get him to the vet?
1 Answer
Published on October 17th, 2018
Psychological stress can make pain worse, and going to the vet can be stressful for a dog. You are correct that Chunk needs dental surgery, and while at home, I would feed him canned dog food, or soak his dry food in gently warmed low sodium beef or chicken broth to make it softer. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. The only safe pain medications for dogs are available by prescription from the vet, and if you feel he is in pain, you can talk to your vet about prescribing some for him. Best of luck, I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.